Mandatory submission of election manifesto copies by political parties: Chief Electoral Officer
Three copies, in Hindi and English, to be submitted at the Chief Electoral Officer's office
Chandigarh, September 6 - Haryana Chief Electoral Officer, Sh. Pankaj Agarwal, stated that as per the directions of the Election Commission of India, political parties and candidates contesting the elections must submit three copies each of their election manifestos in Hindi and English to the Chief Electoral Officer's office within 3 days from the date of issuance of the manifesto.
Sh. Pankaj Agarwal said that all political parties should thoroughly study all aspects of the Model Code of Conduct issued by the Election Commission and ensure full compliance during the election process. According to sub-clause 3 of Paragraph 8 of the Model Code of Conduct, in the interest of transparency, fair opportunities, and the credibility of promises, it is expected that election manifestos reflect the justification for their promises. Primarily, they should outline the methods and means to meet the financial requirements, and voter confidence should only be sought for promises that are feasible to fulfil.
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Divyang and voters above 85 years can vote from home: Chief Electoral Officer
Every voter should exercise their Right to Vote in a democracy says Pankaj Agarwal
Chandigarh, September 6- Haryana Chief Electoral Officer, Sh. Pankaj Agarwal said that the Election Commission of India has made provisions for Divyang (Persons with Disability) voters and those over the age of 85 years to cast their votes from home as well, ensuring their participation in the democratic process. This facility is optional, and such voters can also choose to vote at the polling station if they prefer.
Sh. Pankaj Agarwal emphasised that every voter should exercise their right to vote in a democracy. Just like any other voter, Divyang individuals and those above 85 years of age should also exercise their right to vote. Therefore, this special facility has been made for them.
The Chief Electoral Officer stated that general elections, which occur once every five years, should be celebrated as a festival by every citizen. In Haryana, voting for the general elections of the Legislative Assembly will take place on October 5, 2024, and every voter should contribute to it by casting their vote.
To avail the facility of the home voting, Divyang voters and those over the age of 85 need to fill out Form 12-D and submit it to the Returning Officer within five days of the election notification (September 5, 2024). Apart from this, Divyang voters must submit a copy of their disability certificate of more than 40 percent and should also be marked in the electoral roll, added the Chief Electoral Officer.
He further stated that BLOs would collect Form 12-D from such voters' homes and also a list of these voters will also be provided to the candidates so that they can appoint representatives to monitor the home voting process.
The Chief Electoral Officer said that a team of polling officers would visit the homes of these voters to collect their votes. Voters will be informed in advance about the officer's visit. A videographer and a police security officer will accompany the polling officers to ensure the process is conducted according to the Election Commission's guidelines, while maintaining the confidentiality of the vote.